NORTHWEST BUSINESS.

Harper class caters to home inspectors

October 10, 2002

A state law requiring home inspectors to be licensed by Jan. 1 has prompted Harper College to offer a class on licensing exam preparation.

The Palatine college's course, geared toward people who are new to home inspections or interested in pursuing a career as an inspector, will cover all of the educational requirements set by the state Office of Banks and Real Estate. Students will receive at least 10 hours of hands-on training.

"For the newer students, the biggest thing we can impress upon them is that you can only do what you know," said Brian Fragassi, course instructor and owner of Harmony Home Inspectors. "Somewhere around 150 to 250 inspections, you start to have an understanding of what you do know and what you don't know."

The key to a becoming a good home inspector is being able to recognize when an expert opinion is needed, Fragassi said. "We should know enough to raise the flag and get a specialist involved."

Fragassi's class will focus on common problems, such as poor electrical wiring, as well as tougher issues, such as improper framing and structural defects.

The 60-hour course will run from 6:15 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays between Oct. 22 and Dec. 19 at the college, 1200 West Algonquin Rd. Tuition is $550 and fees are $59.